Page 9 - CAR WASH FLIP TEST

Common Locations for Standard Car Washes

 Part of a bar or near a group of bars. Customer traffic tied to the popularity of the bar.
 Part of petrol stations – Professional image attracts motorists. Fueling and car wash at
the same time
 At junctions / intersections – Point where motorists are likely to take a break / rest.
 Along highways - Targeting travelling motorists
 Residential areas – within a short distance from the motorist’s home. Can easily drive to
the car wash. Or have the car wash as he shops, shaves or does something else.
 Standalone – Anywhere there is space

Car Wash In Terms of Facilities

Basic Setting

Open field. No shade for cars. No shade for customers. Water tank. Car washing machine or no
machine and purely hand washed. Ground could have concrete, bare or grass. Simple billboard
or none at all.

Slightly advanced setting

Cemented or concrete on ground. Shade. At times shade for car and customer. Ramps – present
at times or none at all. Machine. Water tank. Sodas for customers. Payment could be organized-
a cashier and receipt or just casuals

Advanced Setting

All the above. Ramps. Shade for cars. Shade and seats for customers. If standalone could have
sodas /snacks for customers. Several machines or one major. Higher capacity water tank. Cashier
/ manager. Sodas or bites for customers. More advanced washing options – interior, engine,
under wash, waxing, buffing and more. Emphasis on setting and customer service.

The kind of setting will depend on the capital of the owner, competition and trends in the
area, target market, owner’s taste and customer’s demand. It advantageous to offer superior
service despite the competition, trends in the locality or even location advantages.

There is a demand and satisfaction in a superior car wash service, and again despite a present
market lead or simply a comfortable position there is always the possibility a competitor will

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